The UN chief, speaking to reporters on Friday, said he has been trying to arrange the “prompt, impartial, credible and transparent investigation conforming to international standards” that the UN Security Council called for on June 1.
Ban said Israel's own investigation into the flotilla raid -- a public commission with two international observers -- “is important” but won't have “international credibility,” which is why he is continuing to urge the Israeli government to agree to an international panel under a third party “in which both Turkey and Israel would actively participate.”
Pressed on why he didn't just go ahead and appoint an international commission, the secretary-general explained that without Israel's “full cooperation it would be extremely difficult to have a full and credible investigation, and that is why even if it may take time, I'm discussing this matter with Israeli government.” He also noted that he is encouraged that Israel is reviewing its Gaza policy and recently decided to allow more goods into the Palestinian territory. But he added that he wants a greater easing of the Israeli blockade.
